Space Situational Awareness (SSA) is a growing concern for National Security. Among the many methods of increasing SSA is the use of space-based Laser Imaging, Detection And Ranging (LIDAR) sensors to detect, track, classify or image other spacecraft. This Thesis explores the unique trade-spaces and design decisions faced by an engineer designing such a system. It provides an overview of the basic operational principles, the major components, the impact of one design choice on all other decisions, and guidelines for making design choices when designing a space based LIDAR for Space Situational Awareness applications. System operational constraints, demands on the host spacecraft, and potential impacts on other spacecraft are explored. Finally, an illustrative system design is presented, demonstrating the interaction between system requirements, system design, and component selection.

Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

http://archive.org/details/lidardesignforsp109453994

US Navy (USN) author.